Meet the Concordian Staff

Patrice Mitchell is a veteran staff writer for the Concordian, and now is in the process of learning to serve as a section editor. She became a member of the Concordian news team in January 2014, after transferring from Marshall University. She is a Communications major with an emphasis in broadcasting. Her love for mass communications began when she went on a class field trip to New York City where she got to visit 30 Rockefeller Plaza. 

Throughout high school Mitchell participated in many extracurricular activities. She was a competitive all-star cheerleader, as well as a high school UCA All American. In addition to her sports resume, she all participated in the elite Chorale singing group and was also an all-state choir member her freshman and sophomore years.  

She comes from a large blended family, with eight brothers and sisters. She attributes her tough skin to being the baby of the family for so long. “I was always getting picked on. I didn’t know it then, but my sisters and brothers where just making me tougher. They’re the reason I’m strong.” Says Mitchell. 

Patrice worked part time as a gymnastics teacher and lifeguard. “My parents taught me earlier in life that you have to work for you want. My dad is by far the hardest working person that I have ever met. Both he and my mom instilled that work ethic in me. I try to make them proud.” 

Her future plans include graduating from Concord, and moving west to start her career as a professional broadcast personality. Her dream job would be to be a news anchor on a nationally televised night program, or possibly host her own show. Some of her biggest role models and inspirations in her career are: Oprah, Ryan Seacrest, Brian Williams, and Anderson Cooper. 

“One of the only pieces of advice that I could give anyone is to always be yourself. I know that sounds cliché, but it is true. It won’t always be easy, and not everyone will like you for it, but staying true to who you are is where you will find happiness. Also, don’t be afraid to make mistakes. That is where you learn. That is how you grow. I have fallen flat on my face so many times, but that is not how I define myself. I am defined by how many times I rise to my feet, dust myself off, and keep going. Love as often as you can and laugh as much as you want. After all, Hakuna Matata.”